Chelsea Green may be about to lose the one word hanging over her WWE Women’s Championship reign. With Rhea Ripley potentially sidelined until 2027 after knee surgery, WWE is now considering dropping the “Interim” label and making Green the official Women’s Champion.
Sources told TRNBCKL that the idea is on the table because Ripley’s recovery could stretch through the rest of 2026. WWE originally crowned Green as interim champion at SummerSlam while Ripley recovered from a torn meniscus, but that setup becomes harder to carry if the champion is gone for several more months.
Green recently admitted during an interview with Complex Graps that WWE hasn’t told her what the long-term plan is. She also said she’s used to working with little notice and actually prefers being thrown into high-pressure situations.
“I have no idea what’s going on, but I love to fly by the seat of my pants. One thing about me is I work best under pressure. When someone gives me, say, a script last minute, I love, love, love fighting for my life.”
Ripley confirmed on August 6 that she underwent surgery after the injury failed to heal on its own. She did not reveal whether doctors trimmed the damaged meniscus or repaired it, which leaves a huge gap in her possible return timeline.
“Surgery was never a first option for me, but it got to the point that it was needed. First one down. Hopefully no more.”
If the meniscus was trimmed, Ripley could still have a shot at returning before the end of the year. If it was repaired, she could be out until early or even mid-2027. That leaves WWE with a decision to make. Keeping Green as “interim” champion for months could become awkward, especially if Ripley isn’t close to returning. Making Chelsea the official champion would clean up the title picture now and give WWE a much bigger story whenever Ripley eventually comes back.
Nothing has been finalized, but Chelsea Green could soon go from temporary champion to the real deal while Rhea Ripley continues her recovery. Ringside News will continue to keep you updated as information becomes available.
Do you think WWE should drop the “Interim” label and make Chelsea Green the official WWE Women’s Champion? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
